Florida House Bill HB 615 was signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis and became effective in 2025. This new legislation changes how landlords and tenants across Florida can send and receive legal notices related to rental properties. Before HB 615, notices had to be delivered in person or by certified mail. Now, email is legally allowed, as long as both parties agree.
Why the Law Was Introduced
The rental market in Florida is fast-paced and increasingly digital. Certified mail and hand-delivery methods were causing delays, disputes, and confusion. HB 615 aims to simplify and speed up communication while protecting legal rights.
Traditional Lease Notification Methods vs. Email
Previously, lease terminations, non-renewals, and deposit claims had to be sent through slower, physical means. HB 615 gives renters and landlords a faster, trackable option using email.
What HB 615 Changes for Landlords and Renters
Email as a Legal Notification Tool
Under Florida House Bill HB 615, landlords and tenants can use email as a legally valid way to send:
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Lease termination notices
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Deposit refund or claim letters
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Non-renewal alerts
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Move-out requirements
What Qualifies as "Legal Delivery" by Email
Once an email is sent, it’s considered legally delivered, unless it bounces back. That means you could miss an important legal notice if you’re not checking your inbox.
Required Written Consent to Use Email
This law isn’t automatic. Both sides must sign a written agreement that allows email as a communication method. No written agreement? Then, email notices don’t count.
Legal Rules You Must Follow Under HB 615
Mutual Agreement and Signature Requirement: Consent must be in writing, either as part of the lease or as an addendum. Both the landlord and the tenant must agree before email notices are valid.
Providing and Updating a Valid Email: Each party must provide a working email address. If your email changes, you must notify the other side in writing. The change takes effect only when it’s received by the other party.
Proof of Delivery Requirements: Landlords or tenants must keep a copy of the email and proof that it was sent. This becomes critical in disputes over deposits, late fees, or missed termination deadlines.
How Lease Termination Notice Periods Are Affected: HB 615 also adjusts notification timelines. Tenants may now need to give 30–60 days' notice before moving out. Landlords must clearly explain these timelines at least 15 days before the notice period starts.
Why Florida HB 615 Matters to South Florida Renters
South Florida Rental Market Trends
South Florida cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach are experiencing rapid growth and high rental turnover. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Florida has over 8.7 million housing units, with about 25–30% renter-occupied. That means more than 2 million renter households could be affected by this law.
Legal Risks of Missed or Undelivered Emails
In a busy rental market, missing an email could mean:
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Losing your security deposit
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Facing unwanted lease renewal fees
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Risking eviction
Impact on Security Deposits, Renewals, and Evictions
Landlords can now send important notices that impact your money or your lease by email. If you’ve agreed to email notices and miss the message, the legal clock still starts ticking.
Frequently Asked Questions About HB 615
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Can I Opt Out After I Agree?
Yes. You can revoke your consent at any time by sending a written notice to the other party. But the change only takes effect once they receive it.
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What Happens If My Email Doesn’t Work?
If an email bounces back, it’s not considered delivered. That’s why keeping your contact info updated is so important.
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Is an Email More Secure Than Certified Mail?
It’s faster, but not always safer. Certified mail provides a physical trail. With email, the sender needs to save the message and delivery proof to cover themselves legally.
Tips for Renters and Landlords to Stay Compliant
What to Include in Your Lease Addendum
Make sure the lease or addendum includes:
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Full names of both parties
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Clear email addresses
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A clause allowing notices by email
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Signatures of both the tenant and the landlord
How to Track and Save Important Emails
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Use a dedicated folder for lease-related emails
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Always request a read receipt
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Keep a copy of sent emails with timestamps
When to Send Paper Notices Instead
If the notice is time-sensitive or if you’re unsure about consent, it may still be safer to send a certified letter or deliver in person.
This law offers real convenience, but there’s room for error. Tenants and landlords must stay organized and responsive. Florida’s rental laws are changing fast. Whether you rent or own, understanding laws like HB 615 helps you protect your rights and your wallet.
Need Help Navigating Rental Laws in South Florida?
Whether you're a tenant unsure about your rights or a landlord updating your lease agreements, The Mastropieri Group, Realtors® can help. Call us at (561) 544-7000 for guidance on how to manage leases, deposits, and rental communication under the new law.
As an experienced luxury real estate agency in South Florida, we work with renters, landlords, and investors to ensure no detail is missed and no email goes unnoticed.
Posted by Larry Mastropieri on
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